Ankara, April 20 – In a coordinated operation, law enforcement authorities in Ankara raided nine entertainment venues suspected of illegally employing foreign women, leading to the detention of 29 suspects. The investigation, spearheaded by the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office’s Anti-Smuggling and Organized Crime Investigation Bureau, is ongoing.
Investigation into Illegal Employment and Human Trafficking
The Ankara Public Prosecutor’s Office launched an investigation following reports of entertainment venues illegally employing foreign women. The Ankara Public Order Morality Bureau focused its efforts on nine specific entertainment venues located in the Çankaya district.
Investigations revealed that women, primarily from Russia, Ukraine, and Belarus, were housed collectively in hotels. These foreign women were then transported to and from the entertainment venues using dedicated shuttle services.
29 Suspects Detained in Night Operation
Authorities determined that women, officially registered with work permits as waitresses or cleaners, were in fact forced to work as hostesses in these venues. It was also established that the suspects exploited the difficult circumstances of these foreign women, deceiving them into work, which constitutes “Human Trafficking.”
The entertainment venue managers, employees, and the women themselves were meticulously monitored. Evidence gathered indicated that strict rules were imposed on the women, who were only allowed to leave their hotels with permission. Daily wage deductions were applied to those who failed to comply with these rules, as revealed in their testimonies.
Following comprehensive research, a night operation was conducted, resulting in the detention of 29 suspects. Additionally, 38 foreign women – 13 from Kazakhstan, 11 from Russia, 4 from Belarus, 5 from Ethiopia, 3 from Ukraine, 1 from Brazil, and 1 from Kenya – were handed over to the Directorate of Migration for deportation proceedings. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Continuing Efforts to Combat Illegal Employment and Human Trafficking
This operation underscores the commitment of Ankara authorities to combat illegal employment practices and human trafficking. The coordinated efforts of the Ankara Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office and the Public Order Morality Bureau highlight a proactive approach to addressing such illicit activities within the city’s entertainment sector.
The incident also brings to light the vulnerabilities faced by foreign nationals who are often lured into exploitative work conditions. Authorities continue to gather evidence and pursue all leads to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible for these illegal activities are held accountable.
Further details regarding the ongoing investigation are expected to be released as the legal process progresses.
Source: https://www.sabah.com.tr/yasam/ankarada-9-eglence-mekanina-baskin-29-supheli-gozaltinda-7567153
